Letter: Save Aspen’s character

I am writing this letter to plead for the salvation of the character of Aspen.

The hedge-fund money is having a feeding frenzy on Aspen property. They plan to rent only to companies that have a net worth of billions of dollars.

Small businesses find it very hard to make a profit and stay in business if they have to pay $200 per square foot or more for retail space.

The core of Aspen can only accommodate so many businesses. If the existing buildings continue to be demolished, only the large corporations will be able to pay the rent.

Many of these corporations write off the expenses of having a storefront in Aspen as advertising or marketing expenses. In other words, it is the equivalent of paying for a large billboard to promote their products.

If you have any doubt about this, simply walk by these stores, and you will not see anyone in there except for the men in black.

I inquired with a rental broker regarding the space available at the new building at Hunter and Hyman. He told me not to bother; they plan to rent only to “high end” corporations.

If we don’t take a stand now against the hedge-fund money interests, it will surely destroy the precious character of Aspen.

A City Council meeting is tentatively set for Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. in City Hall. You can be a powerful force in saving the charm and character of Aspen by attending this meeting.

Power to the people.

Frank Heger

Owner, The Aspen Goldsmith

Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil. If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.